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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Choose SERVPRO For Your Restoration Needs

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Servpro Trucks Ready For Dispatch SERVPRO® has the experience and training to handle all your restoration and remediation needs.

Choose SERVPRO For Your Restoration Needs

SERVPRO is a leading company in the restoration industry, providing cleanup and restoration services for over 50 years. Here are some reasons why you should choose SERVPRO for your cleanup and restoration needs:

  1. Quick response times: SERVPRO is available 24/7 and responds quickly to emergency calls to minimize damage and prevent further issues.

  2. Highly trained technicians: SERVPRO technicians are certified in all areas of restoration and undergo extensive training in customer service and communication to ensure you are informed and comfortable throughout the process.

  3. Comprehensive services: SERVPRO offers a wide range of restoration services, including water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, and more.

  4. Advanced technology: SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and technology, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, to detect hidden damage and provide the highest level of service possible.

Overall, SERVPRO's quick response times, highly trained technicians, comprehensive services, and advanced technology make them a trusted and reliable choice for all your cleanup and restoration needs.

Our SERVPRO of West Oakland  team understands the inconvenience unwanted events can cause. We are dedicated to providing high quality service to assist you in getting your life back to normal. Give us a call today at (510) 599-9300!

Why Hire SERVPRO Restoration Team For Storm Damage Restoration.

7/16/2022 (Permalink)

Rain Storm Fire, water, and mold restoration are the cornerstones of our business. SERVPRO is dedicated to responding to your emergency fast.

Why Hire SERVPRO Restoration Team For Storm Damage Restoration.

A storm has hit your location, and you can see its destruction on your property. Also, coping with storm damage may be a huge challenge. Do not worry! SERVPRO Restoration team is here to assist. But why hire us for a storm damage restoration?

Fastest and Most Efficient Restoration Companies

When you're amid a severe storm damage circumstance, call SERVPRO professionals to handle everything and have the restoration done as fast as possible. In a concise amount of time, we should be able to restore your house to its previous condition.

We Minimize Damage and Restoration Costs Throughout the Process

Our storm damage restoration services may lower your overall losses and the entire expense of cleaning and repair. When water is rapidly removed, the area will dry quicker. With this, the restoration will go more quickly and smoothly. Our prompt reaction may also achieve the capacity to salvage furniture and papers from damage.

We ensure the Well-Being of Relatives.

When storm damage is severe, microorganisms and contamination are inevitable. However, our storm damage repair services can avoid these germs and bacteria. Because the health of our customers is our priority, our storm damage restoration services will leave your house spotless and sanitized.

Are You Struggling To Recover From A Storm? We've Got Your Back! 

When you lose your assets and properties during a storm, we at SERVPRO of West Oakland  realize how tough it is for you to get back on your feet again.

Immediately contact us so that you may get back on your feet. We have years of experience in dealing with storm damage restoration. So, we can vouch for high-quality service. Give us a call today at (510) 599-9300!

Are you SERVPRO Ready?

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

servpro workers SERVPRO® has the experience and training to handle all your restoration and remediation needs.

Are you SERVPRO Ready?

When property disaster occurs at a business location, the operation of the business is often interrupted. Any interference in business operation can negatively impact the business and profitability of a company. It is imperative that the damage to a commercial establishment be contained and repaired quickly so the impact of business is minimized. 

SERVPRO of West Oakland is an experienced specialist in restoring commercial properties. We have worked at many restaurants, office buildings, manufacturing plants and retail establishments in Foster City, Belmont, San Carlos and Redwood Shores. When a property disaster happens many things can go wrong and quickly. Let’s use a burst pipe flooding as our example. While each building and business will face its own specific situations, these following items are fairly common problems:1 - Portions of the structure will get wet and may need to be removed and replaced. 2 - Water service may be interrupted. 3- Electric service may also be compromised. 4 - Office equipment and manufacturing equipment could be ruined or in need of repair. 5 - Production and assembly processes may be compromised. 6 - Employee safety is in jeopardy (Slip hazard / risk of electrocution) 6 - Alarms, telephones, computers may not function reliably. 7- Elevators don’t work. 8 - HVAC systems compromisedAn experienced commercial mitigation specialist should also provide solutions to business interruption. That’s why SERVPRO of West Oakland provides restoration management services beyond just the initial emergency response of water extraction and structural drying, such as:Water extraction, humidity control, document drying, emergency power, emergency lighting, security services, electronics cleaning and repair, HVAC system cleaning and service, elevator repair, communications systems restoration, structural repair, plumbing repair, temporary office modules, temporary fencing and toilets, OSHA safety inspection services, Industrial Hygienist services, consultation and more.   Being a great commercial mitigation and restoration company, is much more than simply drying a building. It is helping a company get back into operation as quickly as possible. 50% of companies fail within one year of having a disaster. It’s not because they don’t have insurance or resources. It’s because too much time goes by allowing clients to go to competitors.

Call SERVPRO of West Oakland at (510) 599-9300 for a  free Emergency Ready Plan that can help any business be ready for a disaster. Preparedness reduces the down time and that improves the chances for a company to return to profitability after suffering a disaster.

Free and Lunch and Learn Programs

6/5/2022 (Permalink)

Owner Clayton Barry performing a training program. Owner Clayton Barry performing a training program.
 We offer educational programs to the community. For example, Lunch and Learn programs on a variety of topics are part of  SERVPRO of West Oakland  ’s commitment to consumer education. Classes are scheduled to include a breakfast or tasty lunch. Topics are always designed specifically for insurance agents, realtors and building engineers. We have programs that are fifteen minutes in length and expanded versions that are thirty minutes long. Programs can be customized for your organization to address information that is of special interest to you. These lively programs stimulate questions. You can expect to spend another ten to fifteen minutes providing answers. (These programs do not provide State approved educational credits. But, in some cases the presentations qualify as “safety training” meetings.)

SERVPRO of West Oakland  also provides Continuing Education (CE) classes about: water damage mitigation, Fire cleanup, Odor Control, Mold Education and even Ethics. These programs are approved by the California Department of Insurance and the Department of Real Estate. You can earn approved credits by attending these classes. There is no test, just a commitment on your part to attend the entire class. Most classes are two hours in duration. One class for realtors is three hours, as mandated by the State of California. Every class includes a complimentary lunch. We also perform live demonstrations of equipment and cleaning techniques whenever possible. Attendees love these demonstrations!

At SERVPRO of West Oakland its our pleasures to provide your organization with information about the disasters and problems that can affect your properties and clients, and the remedies to make it "Like it never even happened." If you have interest in educational programs please call us at (510) 599-9300.

What Over the Counter Products Work to Remove Fire and Smoke Damage in Oakland Properties?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

smoke and soot damage on wall SERVPRO can effectively remove smoke and soot from your home.

SERVPRO Brings Professional and EPA-Registered Fire Damage Cleaning Agents to Oakland Jobs

Unfortunately, cleaning an Oakland structure and contents after fire damage requires more than a single magic cleaning solution. SERVPRO technicians have access to a wide selection of cleaning agents to work any surface. Plus, the comprehensive knowledge to use these cleaners effectively.

SERVPRO techs bring Oakland properties with fire and smoke damage back to a like-new status using both their professional solutions and restoration training. Walls and ceilings can present a problem, as high heat fires can leave behind light, powdery residues. The technicians have specific tools and cleaners for latching onto this type of smoke damage and lifting it gently off surfaces. Using wet cleaners can drive the soot into painted walls and ceilings, creating more damage. Knowing when to use specific cleaning agents and methods for different residue types is just one of the key reasons to hand off the house fire cleanup tasks to a professional restoration services company.

One of the fundamental elements to a successful fire and smoke damage restoration in a local property is removing any lingering fire odors. While SERVPRO has specific equipment to neutralize pungent smells that fires can leave behind, there are other applications such as: 

  • Odor counteracting beads
  • Deodorizing granules or pellets
  • Concentrated water-based deodorizers

The counteracting beads are a solvent within porous materials. The beads get placed in a glass or foil container, as the solvent within the beads can soften plastic. They work especially well when long-term odor control is needed. Frequently used fragrances are cherry or cinnamon.

SERVPRO of West Oakland at (510) 599-9300 supports the local Oakland community with professional fire and smoke damage restoration services. The trained and certified technicians are available 24/7.

Does SERVPRO Handle Mold Remediation in Oakland for All Types of Mold?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Hand pulling back wallpaper exposing mold SERVPRO is trained and has the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to safely remediate mold in your home.

SERVPRO Has Extensive Training in Mitigation of Mold Damage in Oakland Properties

When mold damage occurs in an Oakland property, although there are many types of mold, all species have some similarities, such as:

  • Airborne spores are harmless and often airborne
  • Mold spores can enter homes through anywhere air can flow
  • Spores will not germinate without moisture
  • Colony growth gets sustained with an organic food source and temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Mold remediation needs to begin in Oakland properties as soon as possible to limit the spread. It is essential to know the different types of mold being seen. Here is a brief overview of common mold types found in Oakland properties:

  • Cladosporium may appear in green, brown, gray, or black colors and powdery, dusty appearance. Spores can become airborne if disturbed through wiping. Aspergillus may be white, yellow, and sometimes turn black.
  • Penicillium is the white or greenish fuzzy mold most often found on food.
  • Alternaria is a dark green, gray, or black mold with long-reaching "hairs." This type of mold is frequently found on carpets, clothing, and textiles.
  • Stachybotrys is a type most people have heard of, also known as "Black Mold." It can grow on practically any surface and tends to have a slimy appearance.
  • Memnoniella mimics the appearance of black mold but is not wet or greasy looking. 

SERVPRO technicians have comprehensive training for safely handling the mitigation for all types of mold. The technicians do not perform air quality tests to determine the mold types present in the home. We treat mold infestations following specific protocols, not based upon the mold species. Most importantly, they can dry and remediate the colonies and apply treatments to inhibit the issue's return. 

Call SERVPRO of West Oakland at (510) 599-9300 when the need for fast, efficient, and professional mold remediation arises. The technicians are available 24/7 for Oakland property owners. 

Where Can Property Owners Seek Help When in Need of Mold Remediation Services in Oakland?

5/30/2021 (Permalink)

mold growing on wall by window SERVPRO dries the water soaked wall by the window, removes the mold, and applies an antimicrobial, "Like it never even happened."

They Should Hire Restorers from SERVPRO to Deal with Oakland Mold Damage

When mold grows in your home, it is vital to eliminate it quickly. Delaying the restoration process can mean costly and extensive remediation services. Mold can grow on trim, drywall, or unfinished wood surfaces. If the area is more than ten square feet, hiring a company like SERVPRO can help you to remediate the mold.

Mold remediation in your Oakland home can be a daunting task but you need to ensure that it is done at a reasonable price. With SERVPRO’s mold removal team, you can rest assured that we can complete the job right the first time. The cost of mold remediation varies based on the job. You are always presented with an estimate and scope of the mold remediation needed.

Mold Growth Needs Moisture

Water can enter your home through structural openings like foundations, windows, pipes, roofs, and leaky pipes. It can also enter your home because of:

  • Misdirected sprinklers
  • Poor drainage
  • Floods
  • High humidity during the summer
  • Lack of air conditioning
  • Inadequate ventilation

High humidity can cause materials to dry more slowly while low humidity improves drying. Air temperature affects the ability of water to move out from materials and the capacity of air to hold moisture. Our SERVPRO restorers can establish an initial environment that improves drying. We understand how to manipulate humidity and temperature levels to produce optimal drying conditions without causing secondary damage. We can isolate the affected area and use antimicrobial products to remove any remaining mold. Trust the IICRC certified technicians from our team to follow professional standards.

SERVPRO can also use an encapsulant or sealer to make the treated areas more resistant to water damage and mold infestations and also assist with odor control.

When your home has mold damage, you can trust SERVPRO of West Oakland to restore it to its normal state. Our 24-hour hotline is (510) 599-9300. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Unsurpassed Flood Extraction Ready for Oakland Properties

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

A white ceiling with a light brown water stain. Flood damage is nothing to hesitate on, call SERVPRO of West Oakland as soon as you notice water.

Call SERVPRO for your flooded Oakland home, and within minutes the flood damage team arrives with extraction tools and equipment for the job!

Flooding on any level can mean a lot of hidden moisture lurking within your Oakland home. Rather than leaving this task up to chance with DIY efforts, flood restoration with SERVPRO gets the job done right the first time. We are also readily available 24 hours a day so that you can feel confident a crew will be at your door and ready to work within hours of your initial call.

Why call SERVPRO for water removal services and flood extraction in Oakland? Because we have technicians who are IICRC-certified and ready to get to work as soon as possible to limit the loss and the onset of secondary damage. To facilitate water clean up to address hidden moisture, we will use:

  • Flood cuts – This helps to remove drywall or plaster up to several inches past the waterline. The area behind the wall gets dried, and the wall gets replaced with all-new materials.
  • Weep holes – These are openings that get punched into a bulging wall or ceiling to allow water to drain.
  • Drilled or Sawn holes – These get done after removable covering like panels, beadboards, or baseboards get pulled up – the holes allow for drainage and drying with improved airflow.

There is no project too great in size or too minute for the crew at SERVPRO of West Oakland. If you need flood extraction and water damage remediation, we are the team to call. Reach us 24/7 for emergency services water damage assistance at (510) 599-9300.

Is Professional Fire Restoration Necessary for Oakland Apartments?

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Apartment building with smoke coming out the windows Even if your particular apartment was not on fire, there can still be damage. Call SERVPRO today will are ready to help.

Professional fire and smoke damage cleaning is wise for Oakland residences.

Apartment complexes and structures in the city can feature hundreds of units. When a single fire disaster impacts your residence, it can spread quickly to be an even more significant and more costly emergency. Our experienced fire restoration professionals can help with containment strategies and efficient restorative approaches.

What Fire Restoration Steps Help Restore Oakland Apartments? 

Air filtration can often be among the most critical initial actions for fire restoration in Oakland apartment buildings. This HEPA filtration can trap and capture hazardous particulates and carcinogenic particles. Air scrubbers can often help in this regard, but other HEPA products can also trap airborne debris and begin deodorization, such as:

As challenging as fire restoration can be when it impacts your residence, it can be a greater concern when these effects affect neighboring properties as well. Our SERVPRO of West Oakland team can help with efficient containment and cleaning strategies. Call us today at (510) 599-9300.

Are There Ways to Enhance Mold Remediation Processes?

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mold on a white wall Mold damage can take over quickly, call SERVPRO of West Oakland.

SERVPRO Combines Traditional and Emerging Technologies to Manage Mold in Oakland 

It can be distressing to watch your home deteriorate from mold infestation. You might also be worried since mold exposure may cause health effects. If you are afraid of immediate recurrence or have challenges with common remediation approaches like cleaning up the affected areas and removing moldy materials, it may be possible to try alternative approaches.

The alternative mold remediation approaches Oakland homeowners can try may involve using unique products or changing the methods of applying regular antimicrobial products to improve their efficiency. Antimicrobial products kill mold spores through physical contact, and therefore any methods that enhance contact can deliver better results. Some of the unique approaches our SERVPRO technicians utilize include:

  • Using paints to suppress odor and halt mold growth
  • Applying antimicrobial products using foggers
  • Removing airborne residues using air scrubbers
  • Containment--securing the work area to prevent cross-contamination of spores or particles

When cleaning moldy surfaces, spores and mold residues are easily released into the air spreading the problem further. Air scrubbers with HEPA filters can help remove the residues. Our SERVPRO technicians also use thermal or ULV foggers, which atomize antimicrobial solutions, thus ensuring sufficient penetration into affected materials.

SERVPRO of West Oakland is committed to providing satisfying mold remediation. Call us at (510) 599-9300 when you need assistance.

Why SERVPRO? Adherence to EPA Mold Damage Remediation Protocol

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

moisture meter checking mold damaged wall SERVPRO inspects, identifies moisture problems, visible mold stains, and then remediates homes in Oakland

Oakland residents rely on SERVPRO’s research-based mold abatement

When mold growth signs appear in an Oakland home, panic can ensue. Media covers concerns about mold infestations frequently, but sometimes the high priority given to mold’s growth and damage fails to guide residents to effective abatement strategies. Contact SERVPRO for a consultation if you note any of the following signs:

  • A clear view of mold colonies on structures or contents
  • Persistently damp areas 
  • Staining of surfaces unrelated to spills, sprays, or other events
  • Musty smells regardless of other indicators

How Does SERVPRO Handle Mold Damage Remediation in Oakland?

  • Locates the mold colonies
  • Contains the affected area with barriers and air scrubbing technology
  • Brushes, scrapes, and employs controllable blasting techniques for porous materials to remove mold
  • Wipes down and uses HEPA-filtered vacuuming to collect debris, bagging all moldy materials for lawful disposal as hazardous waste
  • Disinfects affected surfaces with EPA-registered products
  • Arranges resolution of leaks or other moisture issues contributing to the mold problem

Make the call to SERVPRO of West Oakland at (510) 599-9300 to schedule a mold growth and damage assessment and remediation plan.

Contractor Licenses: General: 937457

Is the Average Homeowner Equipped to Handle Water Damage?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

A couple in a kitchen with rain falling down on them. SERVPRO of West Oakland is prepared to help Oakland homeowners take on water damage.

Most Homeowners are Not Prepared for Water Damage, However SERVPRO is Equipped to Help Oakland Homeowners. 

Many of us hesitate to purchase a home for different reasons.  Although financial reasons weigh heavily, homeowners also need to consider the commitment to the upkeep of the home once it becomes yours.  As a renter, the landlord or property manager typically takes care of repairs leaving the tenant generally free and unencumbered by mishaps typical to owning a home.  For example, when a carpet or floor is soaking wet because of a broken pipe, a tenant can reach out to the landlord, whereas a homeowner needs to research a reputable company to help restore the home.

In Oakland, SERVPRO is an expert in water cleanup services, which makes us a crucial resource once you cross the threshold into homeownership. Because we realize that emergencies happen around the clock, we make our crew available 24/7.  Whenever you find water damage to your property, we can help mitigate your losses by reducing the time lapse between the incident and the extraction of water.  All you need to do is call us and invite our Green Fleet into your home.

First-time homeowners tend to make the mistake of attempting the restoration process on their own. The difference between renting equipment from a home improvement store and allowing us to use our industry-specific tools can represent the difference between the proliferation of bacteria and a safe environment for you and your family.  Our SERVPRO technicians train specifically to understand the chemical composition of available cleaning agents, and we know how to use them to prevent further complications while protecting your furniture and personal belongings.  A poor restoration job can both set you up for issues like mold while damaging your furniture with abrasive solutions.  When you let us lead the way, you do not have to worry about microbial growth or the proper application of cleaning agents.  Our crew knows how to work with EPA-approved products and wearing personal protective equipment to shield our staff and your home from harm.

SERVPRO of West Oakland is here to help you keep your home safe.  Just call our professional team at (510) 599-9300 when you run into trouble and let our team apply its expertise to your benefit.  Like you, we want to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”